Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs with Juicy, Flavorful Meat
Golden, crispy air fryer chicken thighs with juicy interiors — easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Measuring spoons
- Paper towels
- Meat thermometer
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3 minutes.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels to help the skin crisp.
- Rub the thighs with olive oil.
- Combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and thyme.
- Season the chicken evenly on all sides.
- Place the thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 10 minutes, then flip.
- Cook another 8 minutes until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes & Wine Advice
Recipe Notes
For extra crispiness, avoid overcrowding the basket and cook in batches if needed. Dry skin is the secret to golden results.Wine Tips
A medium-bodied Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with chicken thighs, complementing their richer flavor without overwhelming the dish. If you prefer white wine, a lightly oaked Chardonnay provides excellent balance.Nutrition values
Serving: 2 chicken thighs | Calories: 320 kcal | Carbohydrates: 1 g | Protein: 24 g | Fat: 24 g | Saturated Fat: 6 g | Sodium: 540 mg